The Governing Board is pleased to announce the appointment of four new members to fill the current vacancies through the end of General Conference 2019.

With gratitude for their willingness to serve, the Governing Board welcomes Rev. Onetta Brooks to fill the clergy vacancy, and Marsha Warren, Bob Neihaus, and Christy Temples to fill the laity seats.

A global executive and open call search began 10 September 2018. Seven (7) individuals applied for four (4) positions. Two (2) clergy applied for one (1) vacant seat. Five (5) laypersons applied for four (4) vacant seats.

The Governing Board reviewed applications and interviews for the following essential skills: experience and expertise in governance, polity, bylaws, financial management, and fund development.

The individuals selected collectively bring these skills to the Governing Board.

Bob Neihaus, Illinois, USA, brings experience and skills in development and business leadership. Bob attends aChurch4Me in Chicago, Illinois, USA.

Christy Temples is a professional auditor and will offer a focus on governance. Christy is the Interim Pastoral Leader for Thrive MCC in Tallahassee, Florida, USA.

Marsha Warren, Texas, USA, offers expertise in finances as a professional auditor and assessments. Marsha attends MCC San Antonio, in San Antonio, Texas, USA, and will continue her work on the MCC Finance Committee.

"I want to thank everyone who applied to the Governing Board. We are deeply grateful for your willingness to serve at this level of leadership, especially as we prepare for General Conference," said Rev. Elder Rachelle Brown, Interim Moderator.

Terms for new Governing Board members begin in October with official orientation. Newly appointed members will attend the October Governing Board meeting.

Appointed Governors will serve until the end of the 2019 General Conference and may stand for election according to the process established by the Governing Board Nominating Committee.

Founded in 1968, Metropolitan Community Churches(MCC) has been at the vanguard of civil and human rights movements by addressing issues of race, gender, sexual orientation, economics, climate change, aging, and global human rights. MCC was the first to perform same gender marriages and has been on the forefront of the struggle towards marriage equality in the USA and other countries worldwide. MCC recognizes a state of need around the world in the areas of human rights and justice, including the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer communities. As people of faith, MCC endeavors to build bridges that liberate and unite voices of sacred defiance. MCC leads from the margins and transforms.